Kobe University develops bridge maintenance technology using infrared rays

　According to Kobe University, the collaborative research team focused on the temperature of the deck plate and U-rib (*) under the pavement where cracks are likely to occur.If there is a crack in the weld, the heat from the road surface is not transferred to the U-rib part, and a clear temperature difference can be seen. Therefore, by measuring this with an infrared camera, the presence or absence of cracks can be detected from a distance. I succeeded in doing so.
Actually, the welded part directly under the viaduct driving lane of the Honshu-Shikoku Expressway was photographed with an infrared camera for about 10 km.We succeeded in detecting a crack with a length of 40 mm, which was not visually confirmed, and confirmed that the method developed this time is useful.In the future, we plan to develop self-propelled measuring devices and automatic crack detection devices in order to increase versatility.

　Until now, the general inspection method was to visually detect paint cracks and rust, and if the presence of cracks was suspected, remove the paint and perform flaw detection using magnetic powder. Badness and high cost were problems.
The Honshu-Shikoku Expressway has been 18 to 31 years since the opening of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Onaruto Bridge, Setoo Bridge, and other long bridges, and the importance of maintenance and inspection is increasing, so there are great expectations for the practical application of new technology. I'm calling.

　Professor Sakagami said, "The developed inspection system surpasses the current inspection method in terms of reliability, accuracy, efficiency, and cost. It will enable early detection of fatigue cracks and will change the maintenance system." I'm talking.

* U-shaped elongated reinforcing plate attached to prevent deformation of U-rib members